Where Are We Now?

The I-70 Topeka Polk-Quincy Viaduct study began in 2009 involving residents, community leaders and stakeholders to assess the needs and possible solutions in the study area. During Phase I, the study team identified a location and design concept on which to base future design work. The study team, with the assistance of the Project Advisory Committee (PAC), identified three alternatives to improve traffic flow and safety in Phase I. After an extensive public involvement process including the public, local stakeholders and community officials, a final preferred alternative was selected out of the original three alternatives that were chosen and presented by the study team and PAC.

At a public open house in May 2011, participants learned about the preferred alternative that was selected based on input from the public, business owners, City Council and community leaders. In addition, participants were able to view a traffic simulation model showing the proposed future traffic flow and understand the future design considerations and next steps moving forward for the preferred alternative.

As part of T-WORKS, the state's current transportation funding program, the I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct Design project was selected to receive funds to continue the project into Phase II and begin work on design plans.

During Phase II, engineers will review a "Future Design Consideration" suggested by the City Council at the end of Phase I and conduct preliminary engineering to add detail to the location and design. After Phase II is complete, engineers will have more information about the right of way needs and potential future construction costs. While no funding was identified for construction or right of way acquisition under T-WORKS, this design work will position the I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct project to be construction ready so that the project can move forward when funding becomes available. Phase II will be completed in 2016.